Asked in PMC National MDCAT 2020 2020Moderate

Numerous opportunist diseases might attack people suffering from the following diseases?

Correct answer: D. AIDS

  • A. Measles
  • B. Influenza
  • C. Hepatitis A
  • D. AIDS

Explanation

a. Measles: Measles weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to opportunistic infections. While measles itself is not an opportunistic infection, it can compromise the immune system, paving the way for other diseases. b. Influenza: Influenza, commonly known as the flu, can also weaken the immune system temporarily. Similar to measles, influenza doesn't directly lead to opportunistic infections but can make individuals more vulnerable to other diseases during the weakened state. c. Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A primarily affects the liver but is not considered an opportunistic infection. Like measles and influenza, hepatitis A may weaken the immune system, potentially allowing opportunistic infections to take hold. d. AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome): AIDS is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 cells (T cells), weakening the body's defense against infections. HIV/AIDS is associated with numerous opportunistic infections and diseases, including pneumonia, tuberculosis, and various fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. Correct Answer: d. AIDS Explanation: AIDS is characterized by a severely compromised immune system, leading to a heightened vulnerability to opportunistic infections. Opportunistic infections are those that take advantage of a weakened immune system and are often severe or life-threatening. Summary: The correct answer is d. AIDS. Unlike measles, influenza, and hepatitis A, which can weaken the immune system but do not necessarily lead to opportunistic infections, AIDS is specifically characterized by immunodeficiency, making individuals susceptible to a wide range of opportunistic diseases.

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About AIDS and HIV Infection

HIV is a retrovirus that infects CD4 T lymphocytes and gradually weakens immune function, while AIDS is the advanced syndrome caused by severe immune deficiency. Coverage includes viral transmission, replication, disease progression, opportunistic infections, diagnosis, prevention and the difference between HIV infection and AIDS.

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